WAY MARKERS

1 From the village hall, follow the minor road checking the hedges for Yellowhammer and the sky for a possible Red Kite. There are lots of common birds around, such as Blackbird, Dunnock, Robin, House Sparrow, with possible Tree Sparrow and Woodpigeon.

2 Then, through the gate into the reserve and start checking for Little Owl, the ponds for Moorhen (the ponds sometimes dry out), Swallows flying low, swift high above. Check the scrub areas for Long-tailed Tit, Chiffchaff, a possible Tree Pipit and that lovely little Wren.

3 And then it’s across the open area to woodland and check for woodpeckers, Pied Flycatcher, Willow Warbler, Treecreeper, Jay and stay alert for Sparrowhawk.

4 Finally, back through the reserve to make sure you’ve not missed anything, such as Song Thrush, Whitethroat and Garden Warbler. Also, check the little orchard for that colourful Bullfinch.